About Sara Gourley, LPC

About Me

Hi, I’m Sara (she/hers).

I have a love–hate relationship with details and spreadsheets. I can color-code with the best of them; I also know the sinking feeling when the upkeep becomes its own full-time job. My dog, Max, is different — our relationship is about love. He rescued me during a season of grief, even though he was initially terrified of people and being alone. These days, he’s friendly, persistent, and unashamedly himself. I admire that.

Like many of my clients, I’m learning it’s okay to not have it all together. My attention to detail can border on perfectionism, but I’ve learned to trust the voice inside that says good enough really is enough. I’m an introvert and a highly sensitive person who once worked hard to seem “not too much” and “social enough.” Through my own therapy, I’ve come to appreciate the parts I used to hide — sensitivity, depth, and the need for rest — all of which are essential for highly sensitive people.

Why I Do This Work

I was drawn to counseling long before it became part of my life. As a kid, I was fascinated by people — their patterns, emotions, and how they made sense of the world. I followed what seemed like the practical path — a career in business — doing my best to fit in.

For years, I worked in fast-paced corporate settings, where my inner achiever got to shine and I learned the importance of psychological safety; when it’s there, it really can feel like magic. I also saw how capable, caring adults can look composed on the outside while quietly questioning their choices — sensing a gap between who they appear to be and who they truly are.

When grief hit close to home during the early pandemic, I stopped delaying something I’d always been curious about and applied to grad school. I didn’t have every detail figured out; I just knew this was the work I wanted to do. It’s been the most meaningful risk I’ve ever taken, and I continue to learn from it every day.

My work now centers on helping highly sensitive, high-achieving adults who grew up not feeling like they fit in or felt they couldn’t show all parts of themselves — people who learned early that achievement could protect their sensitivity and help them feel safe. I understand that drive deeply — and the exhaustion that can follow.

My Approach

Clients often tell me, “You’re naming things I didn’t realize were there.” I take that as the highest compliment.

My approach is relational and experiential, blending Gestalt therapy, parts work, attachment theory, and somatic awareness. These ways of working invite presence rather than performance — helping you reconnect with what’s real instead of striving to be who you think you should be.

In practice, my style is warm, grounded, and gently curious. I pay attention to what’s happening in the moment, invite awareness of your body and emotions, and help you translate that awareness into self-trust.

I believe therapy is about making space for your full humanity — not just the parts that perform well, but the ones longing to rest, feel, and be seen.